How to Beat Stress

Almost everyone have heard the hit single 'Don't Worry, Be Happy' by Bobby McFerrin. The song has a very catchy way of conveying its message of being happy to everyone. Bobby Mcferrin's simple message surely made a lot of people by telling them not to worry.

Living a happy, resilient and optimistic life is wonderful, and is also good for your health. Being happy actually protects you from the stresses of life. Stress is linked to top causes of death such as heart disease, cancer and stroke.

We've asked some of the top experts in the U.S. to share their thoughts.

Top 3 Tips to Reduce Stress

1. Meditate-Take 10-20 minutes a day to sit quietly and breath. This calms the body and the mind and allows you to begin again with a fresh slate. If you are not able to take a full 10-20 minutes, take two minutes to breathe deeply. Slow deep breathing will bring your heart rate down and allow you let go and re-focus.

2. Take a Walk-At the end of the day, during your lunch break, or whenever you find yourself feeling tense, a walk can help loosen up your muscles and your mind. While you are walking, breath deeply, this will help you stay present and put your focus on the beauty around you, rather than obsessing over your to do list.

3. Simplify-In a world of multi-tasking, the simple act of clearing off your space and focusing on one thing at a time can reduce your stress. Turn off the cell-phone and e-mail and give whatever it is your doing your undivided attention. You will be more effective and you will feel less stressed.

Davina Kotulski, Ph.D. www.davinakotulski.com

1. Breathe

2. Have sex

3. Self affirmations

Harry K. Wexler, Ph.D.

1) ARE YOU EXERCISING ENOUGH?

Proper exercise has shown in most studies to be extremely helpful to your mental health. It not only reduces stress but also can help alleviate mild depression and anxiety. If you have not been exercising at all, then consult a doctor before you begin. Many people come into therapy saying, "Well, I used to exercise and it felt really good, but now I just don't have the time or motivation." A therapist can help by setting up exercise goals, but if you can motivate yourself to exercise 3 times a week for at least 25 minutes, then you may find improvements with your emotional problems.

2) ARE YOU TAKING TIME TO NURTURE YOURSELF?

Many emotional problems arise out of the simple fact that we forget to take care of ourselves. Ask yourself, "What have I done lately to care for myself?" If you answer this question with a statement such as, "Who can find the time?" or "I don't need to take time for myself," then you may discover dramatic results with forcing yourself to set aside some time for self-nurturing.

Kevin Grold, Ph.D

1) Take up gardening. There's something about digging in the dirt, watering and pulling weeds that helps put things in perspective. Plus, exposing one's self to sunshine is helpful for improving one's mood and obtaining Vitamin D.

2) Immerse yourself in an enjoyable hobby--one where you lose track of time when you're doing it. It's easy to think you're too busy to take time for a hobby, e.g., reading, knitting, dancing, painting, hiking or wood carving, but allowing yourself some creative space can reduce stress and increase energy. If you feel less stressed, you're much more likely to be able to do something about the things that are stressing you.

3) Do something nice for someone else. Make it fun. It's amazing how taking the time to think about others often puts our own problems into their proper perspective.

Jennifer L Baker, PsyD

Practice calm from within.

Avoid people who thrive on stress.

Remember that a little stress is important in order to maintain one's resilience.

Leila F. Dane, Ph.D.